illi News - Fall Prep for Your Pond - Why September is the Best Month to Get Ready for Winter

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Pond prep prevents costly winter damage Midwest Pond Features shares the must-do checklist.

CHICAGO - illiNews -- As leaves begin to drop and temperatures trend downward, Midwest Pond Features & Landscape is urging Chicagoland homeowners to prepare their ponds now before autumn debris and early frosts create headaches that linger into spring.

"September is the sweet spot," said Sulaiman Imam, owner of Midwest Pond Features & Landscape. "The water's still warm enough to work safely, plants haven't fully senesced, and your filtration is at peak performance. A few smart steps now can prevent clogged skimmers, fish stress, and expensive winter damage."

The Must-Do September Pond Prep Checklist

Install a leaf net before heavy fall color. Keep nets tight and elevated so leaves dry and blow off instead of sagging into the water.
Clean skimmers and check filter media. Rinse or replace pads and confirm proper flow; a strong skimmer line keeps surface debris from sinking.

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Inspect pumps, fittings, and plumbing. Look for reduced flow, vibrations, or air leaks; clean impellers and confirm your backup plan if a pump fails in a freeze.
Stabilize water quality. Test pH, KH/alkalinity, and ammonia; perform a partial water change if needed and dose beneficial bacteria per label.
Prune and thin aquatic plants. Cut back lilies and marginals to reduce die-off that fuels winter nutrient spikes.
Adjust fish feeding. As water temps dip to ~60°F (15–16°C), switch to an easy-to-digest, wheat-germ blend; stop feeding near 50°F (10°C) when fish metabolism slows.
Confirm aeration and de-icer placement. Move air stones to a shallower shelf (not the deepest point) and test de-icers so a gas-exchange hole is maintained in ice.
Tighten rockwork and edge treatments. Re-set loose stones, check liner edges, and correct low spots that can cause winter leaks.

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Evaluate lighting and safety. Aim fixtures away from leaves and ensure cords and transformers are protected from moisture.

To schedule: (630) 407-1415 • hello@midwestpondfeatures.com • https://midwestpondfeatures.com

About Midwest Pond Features & Landscape

Midwest Pond Features & Landscape designs, builds, and maintains ecosystem ponds, pondless waterfalls, and decorative fountains across the greater Chicago area. Based in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, the company specializes in naturalistic water features, seasonal cleanouts, and repair services that keep backyards beautiful year-round.

Media Contact
Midwest Pond Features & Landscape
(630) 407-1415
hello@midwestpondfeatures.com
midwestpondfeatures.com